February 6, 1932 – May 13, 2021
Early on Thursday, May 13, Leo passed away at home surrounded by his family. Leo is survived by his loving wife, Toini of 71 years, Sakari (Jane), Sinikka (Timo Kuoppala), Sam (Maarit), Lea (Hannu Hakkarainen), Leila (Geoff Tyrrel), late Veijo (Heidi), late Eric (Cheryl), Kenny (Jane), Julia (Bill Blomquist), Liisa (Stan McDaniels), Katri (Jeff Biggar) and late Jari.
Leo will be missed by his wife, children, brothers, sisters, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, nephews, nieces, cousins, and a multitude of friends in Finland, United States and in Canada, that he has touched with his special love. He has been a lifelong member of the Old Apostolic Lutheran Church, where he raised his family according to the teachings of the Triune God, as is taught in the Holy Scriptures, labouring faithfully as a shepherd in God’s congregation. His faith which he carried his entire life, was felt by all those who met him; it carried him through all the heavy trials life had placed before him. Relying on the traveling staff, long suffering, leaning on prayer and his faith in God, such a good example to those who knew him.
Leo was born and raised in Lahti Finland, where he married Toini on April 15, 1950. He, his wife and first child moved to Canada as a young married man along with his paternal family in 1951. They all lived for 2 years in Toronto then moved his family together with his parents to Sault Ste. Marie where he built a home for his family. Leo was employed by Algoma Steel, working in the Mould Yard as a crane operator, from where he retired in 1990.
Due to COVID 19 restrictions, we request that everyone remain in their vehicles during the entire service. The service will be broadcast via our telephone patch system. Anyone wishing to attend via phone patch, please contact the sound committee at 705-254-8136.
There will be a drive by viewing at the Old Apostolic Church on 742 Third Line East, Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario beginning at 9:30 a.m. on Friday, May 21, 2021. A bag lunch will be handed out beginning at 11:30 a.m., which will be handed out to all present in your vehicles. A private family service will be held following visitation. The funeral procession with begin at 742 Third Line East at 2:30 p.m. and drive to Greenwood Cemetery. Please remain in your vehicles at all times. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Old Apostolic Lutheran Church of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario (742 Third Line East), Sault Area Hospital or the charity of choice. Arrangements entrusted to O’Sullivan Funeral Home and Cremation Centre, 215 St. James St, 705-759-8456.